Over the summer, it was quiet around the Berlin label PORK PIE, and I was starting to wonder if something had happened, when suddenly it did. With the release of “Open Channel D“ by NAPOLEON SOLO, the label showed a sign of life again.
Until now, NAPOLEON SOLO was not known to me. I was too young for the band's early work, as they were founded in 1984, and afterwards, the band somehow managed to stay under my radar without my involvement.
But now I can catch up on what I missed. The band not only releases new songs on this album but also older songs that have not yet been available in (good) studio versions.
The fifteen songs showcase the band's full talent. The band from Copenhagen plays a style that mixes 60s soul, ska, and a considerable portion of danceability, not to say pop. Very pleasant to listen to and also infectious. Good mood and relaxation with the light swinging of the dance leg set in while listening.
This album belongs to the releases that make me wonder why this music doesn't make it to the radio. Newer ska strangely hardly manages to present itself on the classic channels. Nothing against the old classics, but time doesn't stand still, and there are many good bands that deserve it.
NAPOLEON SOLO has created their own sound and has maintained it all these years. The music goes straight to the ear and blood, direct and without detours. No warm-up phase is needed here; it can get started right away.
It's a beautiful record that has been made. The band must be a lot of fun live.
Consideration should be given to purchasing “Open Channel D“ to bring someone joy on Christmas Eve.
NAPOLEON SOLO, one of the discoveries of this year.
